Melissani Cave

The Melissani Cave is one of the most beautiful attractions on the Greek island of Kefalonia. Read here about the natural phenomenon awaiting you in the depths of the cave.

I have gone on a quest once again to show you a little paradise on earth that hasn't been overrun by mass tourism. During my search, I stumbled upon the Greek island of Kefalonia. More specifically, I was enchanted by the Melissani Cave - a stalactite cave that boasts a sparkling lake in its center. What sounds incredible is by no means a fabrication. After an earthquake partially collapsed the roof, the cave was discovered for the first time. Sunbeams enter through the opening created and reflect off the surface of the water - a sparkling spectacle awaits visitors, who have been able to row across the lake since the 1960s.

But how did the lake form in the cave? It seems a true natural spectacle is at play. The seawater flowing inland mixed with groundwater and ultimately formed a lake within the cave, where the water evaporates. The atmosphere in this cave is simply incredible. The best time to visit the Melissani Cave is around noon when the most sunlight enters the cave, causing the crystal clear water to shimmer and sparkle. Spectacular shades of blue in various hues flash before your eyes, and a refreshing coolness caresses your body.

The boat tour with your own captain costs just 7 euros per person, who will paddle you across the serene lake. And it is indeed serene - measuring just 160 meters long, 45 meters wide, and 36 meters deep. As soon as spring arrives, the tours are offered all the way until late autumn. While it feels like you are cut off from the rest of the world in the cave, you are not completely alone down there. After all, the Melissani Cave is one of the most famous attractions on the island.

Featured image: iStock.com/borchee